What you must know about New Zealand’s higher education system

New Zealand has recently gained massive popularity thanks to its impeccable education system and globally-recognised universities. Established in 1870, the education system in New Zealand has developed rapidly to incorporate new methodologies and provide state-of-the-art facilities that prepare students for a successful international career.
Let’s take a look at higher education in New Zealand:
Higher education system:
The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) approves secondary and tertiary qualifications and aims to constantly monitor and optimise the quality of education provided by educational institutes. You can choose from a plethora of study programs at graduate, post-graduate and PhD levels.
Higher education in New Zealand can be expensive. However, many students opt for New Zealand student loan to finance their education independently. If you are planning to opt for abroad education loan, please conduct thorough research to know about education loan interest rates, education loan providers, costs covered and other important aspects.
Educational institutes
Various educational institutions offer higher education. Let’s understand these institutions better. New Zealand has 8 government-owned universities and 550 Private Training Establishments (PTEs), offering courses for undergraduate, post-graduate, VET and PhD levels across a range of subjects and fields.
Here are some popular universities in New Zealand:

• The University of Auckland
• Auckland University of Technology
• Massey University
• Victoria University of Wellington
• The University of Waikato
• University of Canterbury
• Lincoln University
• The University of Otago.

What are Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs)?
These institutions offer vocational and applied education. These institutes focus on providing hands-on, practical knowledge and offer vocational certificates and diplomas in both general and specialised areas of study. You can choose from 16 ITPs in New Zealand. These ITPs offer study programs such as Business Management, Computer Science and IT.
Some popular ITPs:

• Ara Institute of Canterbury
• Eastern Institute of Technology
• Manukau Institute of Technology
• Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology
• Northland Polytechnic
• Otago Polytechnic
• Southern Institute of Technology
• Universal College of Learning to name a few.

Private Institutions:
Private Training Establishments (PTEs) are an integral part of higher education in New Zealand. As the name suggests, these are privately owned institutions that offer specialised courses in particular disciplines such as Business, Travel and Tourism, Hospitality and Design. These institutes offer courses accredited by the New Zealand Qualification Authority in the form of certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
Some of the top PTEs:

• Auckland Institute of Studies
• Auckland Hotel & Chefs Training School
• Alpha Educational Institute
• Cornell Institute of Business
• Technology, AGI Education Limited
• Abacus Institute of Studies
• Design and Art College
• International College of Linguistic

The institutions mentioned above will offer you study programs such as National Certification, National Diplomas, Bachelor’s Degree or Graduate Diploma, Post Graduate Diploma or Certificate, Masters and Doctorates.
You can opt for a New Zealand student loan to finance your education. It will cover all the major educational costs, including your tuition fees, travel expenses, cost of learning devices and other more.
Academic intakes
The academic year in New Zealand varies between institutions. For most varsities, academic intakes for higher studies and vocational courses begin around February or March. Most universities offer courses with 2 semesters per year and exams conducted around June and November.
Educational culture followed in the institutes:
The educational institutions in New Zealand offer a supportive environment. Students are encouraged to participate during their lectures. You will be motivated to consider problems laterally and discover solutions using what is covered in class. You are expected to monitor and maintain your credit levels and manage your class projects.
Hence, you should be prepared to work in teams and think innovatively. If you have difficulty with an assignment, you can always reach out to your teachers to seek help and connect with the student learning centre for assistance.
When you study in New Zealand, you will have an opportunity to live with a diverse student community and experience a diverse culture. So, don’t let financial worries stop you from travelling to New Zealand to achieve your academic aspirations. You can opt for an abroad education loan and focus on your study abroad journey. If you have any queries, please connect with us. We will be glad to partner with you on your academic journey.